movement competency
Foundational ability to perform basic movement patterns with appropriate quality, control, and efficiency.
Full Definition
Movement competency refers to the fundamental capacity to execute basic movement patterns such as squatting, lunging, pushing, and pulling with proper biomechanical alignment and neuromuscular control. This concept emphasizes quality over quantity in rehabilitation, ensuring that patients develop sound movement foundations before progressing to more complex or demanding activities. Assessment of movement competency involves evaluating joint mobility, stability, motor control, and movement coordination across multiple planes and functional patterns. Deficits in movement competency often underlie injury patterns and must be addressed through corrective exercise strategies that restore optimal movement quality before advancing rehabilitation intensity or complexity.
Usage
Usage note: Focus on quality assessment rather than strength or endurance measures. Document specific movement deficits and corrections.
In Context
- "Movement competency screening revealed limitations in overhead shoulder mobility affecting functional tasks." — Initial evaluation
- "The program prioritized movement competency development before advancing to sport-specific training." — Treatment progression note